I am an avid reader of historical fiction so I was pleased to have read a book about a real place and real people. Learning the beautiful history of my ancestors will always be right as rain in my book. Too often, the stories we know are not from the mouths of those who actually experienced them. I admire an author that takes time to research and passion to find stories that are necessary for the survival of our Black culture.

Vanessa Miller does a great job here in making readers understand how diligence, perseverance, and pride can always shift the narrative that seeks to discredit and dismantle the Black experience. By birthing the stories of Queen Luella and King William, The American Queen gives other Black people hope that in the face of adversity and pure hatred, they can still succeed and survive.

Aside from the fact that Williams writes a compelling story, she also creates complex and strong female leads that make me proud to be a Black woman. It is without a doubt one of my favorite ways to envision a Black female protagonist that takes no crap, gets the job done, and commands respect. Queen Luella is the epitome of Black excellence, grace, and beauty. Luella walks in history so the confident, strong, and wise Black women can run the world today.

If you enjoy a story that rewrites and shifts the narrative about Black history and culture, then this is a sure fire way to learn and be amazed at the strength of a people. Williams is a great storyteller and continues to amaze me with her work.

4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️